In order to improve the capacity of local nutrition action officers and implementors in coordinating and managing nutrition programs, the NNC conducted the Nutrition Program Management Training for implementers not only to enhance their knowledge, skills and values but generally to continue in producing program champions in nutrition.

Specifically, the training was aimed at a) providing the participants a common and better understanding of the basic concepts on food and nutrition including Nutrition Program Management Cycle ; b) strengthening the core values and improving the skills of nutrition workers; and c) promoting integration of Nutrition Program Management (NPM) in the local governance and development system.

The five (5) day training was conducted at Hacienda Gracia Resort, Lubao, Pampanga on October 6 to 10, 2014. The 30 participants of NPM were made up of Provincial/City/Municipal Nutrition Action Officers, Municipal Health Officers, District and City Nutrition Program Coordinators, Nurses and Nutrition Officer from the cities of Angeles (2), Mabalacat (2), Palayan (2), City of San Fernando (5) and San Jose (3); while others came from the municipalities of Aurora (2), Bataan (2), Pampanga (2), Tarlac (4) and Zambales (5) and one (1) Nutrition Officer of NNC Regional Office.

As a requirement of the five-day training, the participants submitted their draft local nutrition action plan. Plan preparation was among the core activities of the training since the NPM Training graduates must be able to lead in planning in their respective LGUs. It was also emphasized that NAOs and other local nutrition workers are expected to become experts in local nutrition assessment, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of nutrition programs.

Kudos to our new graduates, recharged and refreshed Nutrition Program Managers!